New Hampshire DWI Courts

There are no special DWI courts in New Hampshire.  Most DWIs are considered misdemeanors and are therefore handled at the district court level.  However, depending on whether you are charged with a Class A or Class B will determine whether or not a judge or jury will ultimately hear your case.

All misdemeanors start out at the district court level.  That means a judge will hear the case, including the trial if necessary.  If the DWI is a class B misdemeanor, there is no right to a trial by jury.  All proceedings will be handled in district court including a trial by a single judge.  If the DWI is a Class A misdemeanor, it will be handled by a district court judge as well.  The big difference is that if you are found guilty on a Class A misdemeanor, you have the option of appealing the case for a jury trial de novo.  That means you get two cracks at the case.

Contact New Hampshire DUI Attorney William T. Bly for more Information